Walking into the Pembroke cafeteria is like joining the model United Nations, says Harrington. “You’ll see students of every color sitting at one table immersed in provocative conversation,” he says. Instead of conflict, “students see the face of the work force that they are going to enter.”

James Hampton, a 44-year-old sophomore at UNCP who is Black, opted out of attending one of North Carolina’s historically Black colleges or universities; he chose UNCP instead.

“UNCP was one of the best decisions I ever made,” says Hampton, who is working toward his bachelor’s degree in information technology management. “We can’t all go to HBCUs. There have always been others that went somewhere else. UNCP is very diverse. I liked the program so I decided to apply.”

A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., Hampton gravitates toward environments where he can find a good mix of people. As far as inclusion at UNCP is concerned, Hampton says, “It is here as it is everywhere: racism, double standards, and different expectations for [varying groups]. I would be lying if I said it didn’t [happen]. But there are many situations and events where people from every background all come together.”

UNCP prides itself on focusing on the “whole student,” Harrington says. None of its courses are taught by teacher’s assistants or graduate assistants, and, with a student-faculty ratio of 14 to 1, the average class size hovers at 30 students.

“Our professors provide great personal relationships, and the university allows students to engage in the region,”Harrington says.

Hampton agrees. “I can truly say my mentors — of all colors — have opened doors.”

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